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Vega

Lockheed Aircraft Limited · Transport · United States · Interwar (1919–1938)

Vega — Transport
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The Lockheed Vega was an American single-engine high-wing wooden monoplane — Lockheed's first commercial success + one of the most-famous American interwar aircraft. Jack Northrop (later founder of Northrop Aircraft) + Allan Loughead designed the Vega in 1926-1927; first flight 4 July 1927. About 141 Vegas were built between 1927 and 1934 at Lockheed Hollywood + Burbank. The aircraft achieved a stunning record-setting record: 10+ world aviation records 1928-1935, including Amelia Earhart's 1932 solo transatlantic flight + Wiley Post's 1931 round-the-world flight in the Winnie Mae.

The Vega 5 (most-numerous variant) used a Pratt & Whitney R-1340 Wasp 9-cylinder radial engine (450 hp). Maximum speed 298 km/h, range 1,400 km, service ceiling 4,600 m. Capacity: 6 passengers + 1 pilot. The aircraft used a moulded-plywood monocoque fuselage — an innovative construction technique that gave it exceptional aerodynamic cleanliness + relatively light weight. The cantilever wooden wing eliminated drag-producing bracing struts. The combination made the Vega the fastest civilian aircraft of its era.

Vega service was concentrated in record-setting + airline + private use 1927-1935. Famous achievements: Wiley Post's 1931 round-the-world flight (8 days 15 hours 51 minutes), Post's 1933 first solo round-the-world flight (7 days 18 hours 49 minutes), Amelia Earhart's 1932 solo transatlantic flight (Newfoundland to Northern Ireland, 14 hours 56 minutes), and 6 other world aviation records. Earhart's Vega 5B + Post's Winnie Mae are both preserved at the Smithsonian National Air & Space Museum. About 4 Vegas survive in 2026.

For Kids — a shorter, friendlier version

The Lockheed Vega was a small American airplane made mostly of wood. It first flew on July 4, 1927. Two designers, Jack Northrop and Allan Loughead, came up with the idea in 1926. It became one of the most famous planes of its time.

The Vega was faster than almost any other civilian plane back then. Its top speed was about 185 miles per hour. The body was made from molded wood layers pressed into a smooth curved shape. This made it very light and sleek. It could carry six passengers plus a pilot.

The Vega set more than ten world aviation records between 1928 and 1935. Amelia Earhart used a Vega to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean in 1932. Wiley Post flew his Vega called the Winnie Mae all the way around the world in 1931. These were huge achievements in the history of flying.

About 141 Vegas were built between 1927 and 1934. They were made at Lockheed factories in Hollywood and Burbank, California. The plane was smaller than a school bus but carried brave pilots across oceans and continents. Today, some Vegas are preserved at the Smithsonian for everyone to see.

Fun Facts

  • The Lockheed Vega first took flight on July 4, 1927 — America's birthday!
  • Amelia Earhart flew a Vega solo across the Atlantic Ocean in 1932.
  • Wiley Post flew his Vega called the Winnie Mae all the way around the world.
  • The Vega set more than ten world aviation records in just seven years.
  • Its wooden body was shaped like a smooth tube to cut through the air cleanly.
  • The Vega was smaller than a school bus but could fly nearly 870 miles without stopping.
  • Only 141 Vegas were ever built, making each one quite rare.
  • The Vega's wing had no wire supports, which made it faster and cleaner in the air.

Kids’ Questions

What was special about how the Vega was built?

The Vega was made from layers of wood pressed and molded into a smooth, curved shape. This made the body very light and aerodynamic. There were also no wire struts holding up the wings, which reduced drag and made it faster.

Why is the Lockheed Vega so famous?

The Vega helped pilots break many world records. Amelia Earhart used one to become the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean. Wiley Post flew one around the entire world. These amazing flights made the Vega a legend.

Where can I see a Lockheed Vega today?

Some Lockheed Vegas have been saved and are on display at the Smithsonian museum. You can go there and see these historic planes up close. It is a great way to learn about early aviation history.

Variants

Vega 1-5 (basic)
Various engine + refinement variants. ~141 built total.
Winnie Mae
Wiley Post's specific Vega 5B (1931 + 1933 round-the-world flights). Smithsonian preservation.

Notable Operators

Record-setting pilots + airlines + private (1927-1935)
Wiley Post, Amelia Earhart, Frank Hawks, Bobbi Trout, many others.

Frequently Asked Questions

What records did the Vega set?

10+ world aviation records 1928-1935 — including Wiley Post's 1931 + 1933 round-the-world flights, Amelia Earhart's 1932 solo transatlantic flight, Frank Hawks's transcontinental speed records, and many others. The Vega's combination of clean aerodynamics + relatively long range + reliable Pratt & Whitney Wasp engine made it the record-setter's aircraft of choice in the late 1920s + early 1930s.

Sources

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